Aaaaand, we're back in business, snapping back into action on the eve of a retail-heavy First Thursday, just like old times.
• In First Thursday fashion, Porch Light is staying up late for a trunk show of jewelry (Amy Olson, Jesseca Anne) and unique candles and planters (Aspen Summit), for Valentine’s purposes or otherwise. Porch Light, 225 NW 11th, Thurs Feb 5, 4-9 pm
• If you’re mourning the loss of Yo Vintage!’s recently departed brick ‘n’ mortar, chin up: West End Select Shop is hosting its first (of many, I’m sure) pop-up, with a proper First Thursday launch party with drinks and snacks. West End Select Shop, 927 SW Oak, Thurs Feb 5, 5-8 pm; pop-up through Thurs Feb 12
• There’s no shortage of Portland companies making quality leather goods, but if you’re interested in learning a few tricks of the trade yourself, Orox Leather Co. has a casual opportunity for you. Beginning this week, they’re hosting “DIY Thursdays,” where you’ll learn some basics and complete a simple project (this time it’ll be a hand-stitched wallet) over Ninkasi beers. No stress. Orox Leather Co., 450 NW Couch, Thurs Feb 5, 5:30-7:30 pm, $75
•Betsy & Iya are hosting a kickoff party for their latest collection, “You + Me, pt. 1.” Attendees can shop the 15 new pieces (or create a wish list to slip to their valentine), mug for the DIY photo booth, and knock back some champers. Betsy & Iya, 2403 NW Thurman, Thurs Feb 5, 6-9 pm
• The first week of the month brings good reasons to head down to the 811 E Burnside complex, with a flurry of art openings, including Don Lee’s “woodmapping” carved pieces at Redux, and an exhibit of Myles Katherine’s dark, moody photography at Haunt. 811 E Burnside, Redux #110, Haunt #113, Fri Feb 6, 6-9:30 pm (Redux), 6-8 pm (Haunt)
•“I Have a Dream” Oregon and Amy Vining Photography have cooked up a charming benefit fashion show: Twelve high school-aged Dreamers will model clothing from the likes of Mabel & Zora and Myriam Marcela, plus there’ll be a performance by the Jefferson Dancers! (Obvi, 100 percent of ticket sale proceeds go to the organization.) Urban Studio, 935 NW Davis, Thurs Feb 5, 6:30 pm, $13-15
•Mink is celebrating the pre-Valentine’s vibes with a trunk show that features a trio of jewelry designers: Amy Olson, Forge and Fire, and Ann DiNucci. Plus there’ll be giveaways, and bubbles, of course. Mink, 3418 SE Hawthorne, Sat Feb 7, 10 am-6 pm
• Longtime vintage collector and former Portlander Sue Eggens is returning to town with 50 of her favorite dresses for a trunk show: think mostly mid-century, and think spring! Snacks and drinks shall be served. Wanderlust Vintage, 2804 SE Ankeny, Sat Feb 7, 5-9 pm
• The multi-faceted HeartCave, by Kate Rutter, traffics in jewelry and essential oils with cosmic properties, and this week is the proper launch. The party/exhibition will also feature photo and installation artwork, music, and spirits, so make ready to connect with the Mother. Tillamook Station, 665 N Tillamook, Sat Feb 7, 6-10 pm
• The long-awaited Italian Style exhibit is now open at the Portland Art Museum, and here’s a good reason to go early: The program of related events is kicking off with a “Behind the Scenes” talk with Victoria & Albert Museum Curator of Fashion, Sonnet Stanfill. Portland Art Museum, 1219 SW Park, Sun Feb 8, 2 pm, $17-20
•Palace is getting into the season of love with a gift idea-studded event featuring Löyly, jewelry brands Better Late Than Never and Tiro Tiro, OLO Fragrance, and aura photography by Radiant Human. Plus, a raffle, tea, bubbly, and other treats. Palace, 2205 E Burnside, Sun Feb 8, 2-6 pm
•Unmentionable: A Lingerie Exposition is one of the week's hottest tickets. Check out my interview from yesterday with headliner Rachel Rector. Doug Fir, 830 E Burnside, Tues Feb 10, 8 pm, $10-12